Drug

Atenolol

Common brand names:

Tenormin

Atenolol is a beta-blocker drug used to treat some heart conditions, reduce the symptoms of angina pectoris (chest pain), lower blood pressure in people with hypertension, and treat people after heart attacks.

Summary of Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, & Foods

  • Negative Interactions

    2
    • Atenolol

      Pleurisy Root

      Potential Negative Interaction

      As pleurisy root and other plants in the Aesclepius species contain cardiac glycosides, it is best to avoid use of pleurisy root with heart medications such as atenolol.

      Pleurisy Root
      Atenolol
      ×
      1. Newall CA, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-Care Professionals. London: Pharmaceutical Press, 1996, 213-4.
    • Atenolol

      Potassium

      Potential Negative Interaction

      Some beta-adrenergic blockers (called “nonselective” beta blockers) decrease the uptake of potassium from the blood into the cells, leading to excess potassium in the blood, a potentially dangerous condition known as hyperkalemia. People taking beta-blockers should therefore avoid taking potassium supplements, or eating large quantities of fruit (for example, bananas), unless directed to do so by their doctor.

      Potassium
      Atenolol
      ×
      1. Rosa RM, Silva P, Young JB, et al. Adrenergic modulation of extrarenal potassium disposal. N Engl J Med 1980;302:431-4.
      2. Lundborg P. The effect of adrenergic blockade on potassium concentrations in different conditions. Acta Med Scand Suppl 1983;672:121-6 [review].
  • Supportive Interactions

    1
    • Atenolol

      Zinc

      Replenish Depleted Nutrients
      Atenolol has been reported to decrease the levels of zinc in blood serum. The clinical significance of that finding is not certain.
      Zinc
      Atenolol
      ×
      1. Braun LA, Rosenfeldt F. Pharmaco-nutrient interactions - a systematic review of zinc and antihypertensive therapy. Int J Clin Pract 2013;67:717–25.
The Drug-Nutrient Interactions table may not include every possible interaction. Taking medicines with meals, on an empty stomach, or with alcohol may influence their effects. For details, refer to the manufacturers’ package information as these are not covered in this table. If you take medications, always discuss the potential risks and benefits of adding a new supplement with your doctor or pharmacist.

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